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Features of ENERGY STAR Qualified New Homes
To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes.
And with homebuyers increasingly interested in green building, energy efficiency is the place to start. That's because the energy used in homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and risks of global warming. So, the less energy used, the less air pollution generated. And the easy way to make sure a new home is energy efficient is to look for the blue ENERGY STAR mark, the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. Learn more about how Green Begins with ENERGY STAR Blue (130KB).
Any home three stories or less can earn the ENERGY STAR label if it has been verified to meet EPA's guidelines, including: single family, attached, and low-rise multi-family homes; manufactured homes; systems-built homes (e.g., SIP, ICF, or modular construction); log homes, concrete homes; and even existing retrofitted homes.
ENERGY STAR qualified homes can include a variety of 'tried-and-true' energy-efficient features that contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution:
1. Effective Insulation
Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures
even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased
comfort.
Learn more about Properly Installed Insulation (149KB).
2. High-Performance Windows
Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective
coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during
summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor
carpets and furnishings.
Learn more about Qualified Windows (212KB).
3. Tight Construction and Ducts
Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and in heating and cooling
duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly
sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and
maintenance.
Learn more about Efficient Duct Systems (163KB).
4. Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and
cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall
comfort of the home. When properly installed into a tightly sealed home, this
equipment won't have to work so hard to heat and cool the home. Learn more
about:
Qualified Heating Equipment (142KB)
Qualified Cooling Equipment (178KB)
Mechanical Ventilation (140KB)
5. Efficient Products
ENERGY STAR qualified homes may also be equipped with ENERGY STAR qualified
products — lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and
appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. Learn more
about ENERGY STAR qualified products:
Qualified Appliances (153KB)
Qualified Lighting (170KB)
Advanced Lighting Package (91KB)
High Efficiency Water Heaters (177KB)
6. Third-Party Verification
With the help of independent Home Energy Raters, ENERGY STAR builder partners
choose the most appropriate energy-saving features for their homes.
Additionally, raters conduct onsite testing and inspections to verify the energy
efficiency measures, as well as insulation, air tightness, and duct sealing
details.
Learn more about Independent Inspection and Testing (182KB).
Take a tour behind the walls of an ENERGY STAR qualified home
More About Energy Star
